Although it’s only mid-July, the start of a new school year is almost here. The Bronx Chronicle believes it’s important for parents to prepare their children for the challenges ahead. To that end, we have compiled a list of things parents can do to help their children have a successful and safe school year – from discussing bus and personal safety to helping with homework. It’s also that time of the year when motorists have to pay special attention while driving, e.g., not passing stopped school buses with flashing red lights and obeying posted speed limits in school zones.
Preparing for the First Day
- Know what time school starts and ends
- Know what the procedure is for dismissing children early in the event of an emergency
- Find out what time lunch is, if they can buy lunch, how much it costs, and if the school offers reduced priced lunches or breakfasts
- Be sure you filled out the proper health and emergency contact forms
- Alert the school of any health problems your child may have
- Make sure your child is up-to-date with all the proper shots and inoculations
- To prevent injury, your child’s backpack should never weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of their body weight
- Be sure your child knows his or her home phone number, and your work, cell phone, or pager number
- Plan a route to and from school and practice it with them beforehand
- Teach your child the necessary traffic rules
- Make sure they have someone to travel to and from school with – they should never go alone
- Teach your child never to talk to or accept rides from strangers
- Ask them if they have any questions or concerns about their first day
Homework Tips
- Create an environment conducive to studying with adequate lighting and free from distraction
- Set aside ample time for homework
- Be available to answer questions
- Make sure they get a 10 minute break for every hour they are working
We believe that by following these helpful tips you will help ensure that your children have a safe and productive school year.
Follow Us